MP calls for surge in police numbers

The independent MP has told New South Wales Parliament, Lake Macquarie has one of the lowest ratios of police per head of population in the state and it is a very difficult geographical area for officers to service.

Mr Piper says he will raise his concerns with Police Commissioner Andrew Skipione, which Minister Michael Daley has also promised to do.

"What I understand of the intentions of the ministry is that we are going to just keep coasting along like we are - that's not good enough," Mr Piper said.

"Residents are tired of this, they want at least the equivalent to what most other local area commands have in the state and we're a long way below it."